Joint inspection highlights outstanding partnership work supporting children and families in South Ayrshire
A new joint inspection has warmly commended South Ayrshire's strong and innovative multi‑agency approach to supporting children, young people and families.
The inspection focused on services for children and young people subject to compulsory supervision orders and living at home with their parents in South Ayrshire. The following four quality indicators were investigated as part of this inspection:
- Impact on children and young people. (Very Good)
- Care planning, managing risk and effective intervention. (Good)
- Involving individual children, young people, and families. (Very Good)
- The leadership of strategy and direction. (Very Good)
Inspectors highlighted a clear shared commitment across all partners to putting children and young people at the centre of decision‑making. There was also a strong focus on early intervention and building trusted relationships with families.
A number of highly impactful multi‑agency initiatives were praised, including the Virtual School, Family First forums, targeted support for young carers and emergent plans for Integrated Neighbourhood teams. Inspectors also commented that the focus on implementing the promise was tenacious.
The report recognises the dedication and creativity of staff across all services, highlighting their ability to provide consistent and compassionate support. Strong professional relationships and effective information sharing were also key strengths, enabling partners to respond quickly and appropriately when help is needed.
Overall, inspectors expressed confidence in the ability of partners to continue improving, highlighting strong leadership, effective governance and a clear culture of learning and innovation across services.
Councillor Hugh Hunter, Health and Social Care Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council said: "I want to thank all of the staff who work with our children and young people every day. This report reflects the dedication, compassion and professionalism they bring to their roles.
"The support provided means more children and young people can remain safely with their families, which is so important for their wellbeing and development. I am so proud of the children and young people who are flourishing thanks to this ongoing commitment.
"We want every child and young person in South Ayrshire to have the best possible start in life, and this report shows we are making strong progress towards that goal."
Councillor William Grant, Education and Lifelong Learning Policy Lead said: "We are delighted that the inspection highlights the success of our joined‑up approach, especially the impact of the Virtual School and wider education partnerships. By working together, we are helping more young people to attend, achieve and move on to positive destinations, and that is something to be very proud of."
Chief Superintendent Suzanne Chow, Ayrshire Divisional Commander, Police Scotland, said: "I am delighted that our collaborative approach and our collective ability to continue improving and learning across services has been recognised.
"We are committed to working together to support and protect children, young people and families."
Jennifer Wilson, Nurse Director - NHS Ayrshire & Arran, added: "This inspection report recognises the real difference strong partnership working is making for children, young people and families across South Ayrshire. By working closely with our colleagues in education, social work and the third sector, we are able to provide more joined-up, compassionate and responsive care, ensuring families receive the right support at the right time."
The report can be viewed at: www.careinspectorate.com/images/Joint_inspection_CYP_subject_to_a_compulsory_supervision_order_South_Ayrshire_May_26.pdf
